Billboard's Cmas In July: Ed Christman

Billboard magazine is as gratifying as an accountant's spreadsheet anymore, with its B-to-B preoccupation with little more than digital technology. And yes, this is a personal observation, close to my heart, but even the reviews pages—once the pub's single outlet for creative opinion—now more often than not possess the verve and sass of a grocery list...But this week's issue shows a profound hint of the entertainment value that made Billboard a must-read, picturing Ed Christman (tragically, among only three remaining staffers with any industry history) dressed as Santa, with his forecast on the future of retail. Oh holy night... or holy hell, what a riot. I just love this.